And Jani Joseph Wright, 25, of Conybere Street, Highgate, had also admitted ten offences of conspiracy to rob.

Singh and Shaw were jailed at Stafford Crown Court for four-and-a-half-year years, while Wright received a five-year sentence.

Detective Chief Inspector Paul Clews, from Staffordshire Police, said: “These crimes were committed against hard-working members of our communities and left several of the victims traumatised. I hope the prison sentences in some way help to bring closure.’’

Staffordshire Police had worked with neighbouring forces in the West Midlands, West Mercia and Warwickshire to catch the gang, who were linked to 15 raids.

DCI Clews added: “I personally would like to thank the Co-Operative management team who have been excellent in their support of the investigation. The complexity of the operation meant co-operation was as important a factor as ever utilising resources from our neighbours in West Mercia, Warwickshire and the West Midlands.”